Looking for the best hot springs in Texas? You might already know Texas for its sprawling landscapes, from sandy beaches and rugged mountains to serene lakes and rolling hills. But did you know that nestled within these diverse terrains are some truly remarkable hot springs? Though fewer in number compared to other states in the Southwest, Texas’ hot springs offer a unique blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and geothermal wonders.
Hot springs offer year-round benefits. From stress relief to improved circulation, these geothermal mineral waters are nature’s way of saying, “Relax, you’re in good hands.”
We’ve pinpointed the top hot springs in Texas. All locations are linked to Google Maps for your convenience. So, if you’re looking to swap the hustle and bustle for some natural spring waters in the Lone Star State, read on.
Does Texas Have Any Hot Springs?
Absolutely, Texas is home to several inviting hot springs that offer more than just a warm dip. While the state may be better known for its BBQ, hiking trails, camping sites, and rodeos, it also holds a lesser-known treasure trove of natural hot springs.
Contrary to popular belief, these natural springs in Texas are not limited to the more famous hot spring states; they’re right here in the heart of Texas.
The Lone Star State’s hot springs are often naturally heated to around 105 degrees Fahrenheit. What’s more, these beautiful natural springs in Texas are accessible year-round, thanks to Texas’ mild climate.
While summertime temperatures in Texas can increase close to or even above 100 degrees, the hot springs maintain a consistently warm temperature that aligns well with the state’s hot climate.
Many of these hot springs are located on public property (apart from some privately owned), making them easily accessible to the general public. So, yes, Texas does have hot springs, and they are well worth a visit.
Top Natural Hot Springs in Texas, United States
Here is the list of the best natural hot springs in Texas that are worth visiting:
- Chinati Hot Springs (Ruidosa Hot Springs)
- Langford Hot Springs or Boquillas Hot Springs in Big Bend National Park
- Barton Springs Pool
- Capote Springs
- Krause Springs in Spicewood
- Jacob’s Well
- Hamilton Pool Preserve
The Best Hot Spring in Texas – Our Choice
After exploring various options, our choice for the best hot spring in Texas has to be Chinati Hot Springs. Nestled near the Mexican border in the Chihuahuan Desert, this oasis truly stands out. The secluded setting offers unmatched tranquility, allowing you to fully unwind and soak in the mineral-rich waters surrounded by natural beauty.
What sets Chinati apart is its exclusivity and commitment to sustainability. The hot springs are powered by solar panels and the water is rich in therapeutic minerals. Beyond the springs, you can explore nearby trails or simply stargaze in one of the darkest skies in North America.
The combination of therapeutic waters, remote beauty, and eco-friendly operations makes Chinati Hot Springs the unparalleled choice for a holistic wellness experience in Texas.
How We Ranked Best Natural Texas Hot Springs
To curate the ultimate list of the best natural hot springs in Texas, we employed a focused set of criteria: water temperature, accessibility, facilities, and natural setting. Ideal springs have therapeutic water temperatures around 105 degrees Fahrenheit, are easily accessible whether you’re a local or a tourist, offer basic amenities for a comfortable visit, and are set in captivating natural landscapes. These criteria ensure that you’ll experience the optimal balance of relaxation and convenience during your visit.
1. Chinati Hot Springs (Ruidosa Hot Springs) – Marfa, TX
Google Maps Location | Website
Located in the Chihuahuan Desert near Marfa, Texas, Chinati Hot Springs, also known as Ruidosa Hot Springs, is a secluded, rustic resort initially built by minimalist sculptor Donald Judd. The Springs is a privately owned property and optimized as a must-visit destination. With water temperatures ranging from 104 to 113 degrees Fahrenheit, Chinati Hot Springs offers an unparalleled soaking experience, drawing locals and travelers alike.
Photo by: Tiffany Harelik
Photo by: callmecaitlynm
Features & Facilities
The resort features eight rustic cabins, each equipped with private hot spring baths/showers. Guests have exclusive access to the outdoor hot springs pool and a public hot spring tub. The outdoor pool is maintained at 85-95 degrees, while the public tub stays around 95-102 degrees, seasonally adjusted. Additional amenities include a community kitchen and outdoor grills. The property is pet-friendly, and you can also drink the mineral water sourced from the springs.
Accessibility
The resort is remote and requires a significant drive, including a 20-mile stretch on a dirt road. However, despite its isolated location, it doesn’t feel too detached, thanks to the convenient amenities provided on-site.
What Makes It Unique
Chinati Hot Springs offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and rustic luxury. Its high temperatures are rare, making it stand out from other hot springs in the area. Moreover, the resort allows you to alternate between hiking through nearby trails or visiting the Rio Grande and indulging in the healing mineral waters.
How to Reach Cinati Hot Springs?
The resort is about a half-hour drive from the Ruidosa Ghost Town. You’ll need to traverse a winding, 20-mile dirt road to get there. For more information, visit ChinatiHotSprings.
Pro Tips
- Book in advance, as the eight cabins fill up quickly.
- Bring all necessities, given the remote location.
- Use the outdoor grills for a unique, self-cooked meal.
- Don’t forget to check out the local hiking trails and the Rio Grande during your stay.
Chinati Hot Springs tailors to a variety of relaxation needs. This accessibility, combined with its rich history and natural beauty, makes it a must-visit spot for anyone interested in experiencing the best hot springs Texas has to offer.
2. Langford Hot Springs or Boquillas Hot Springs in Big Bend National Park
Google Maps Location | Website
Langford Hot Springs, also known as Boquillas Hot Springs or Big Bend Hot Springs, is a remarkable geothermal feature situated in Big Bend National Park near the Rio Grande River. This hot spring is the site of the historic Langford Bathhouse, which operated over a century ago. Today, the remaining large cement tub serves as the hot spring, with temperatures at a consistent 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
Features & Facilities
The hot spring comes with a cement-walled tub that can comfortably accommodate multiple visitors. The temperature of the water stays around 104 degrees, providing a soothing experience. This hot spring is for day use only and comes with specific rules such as no soaps, oils, or alcoholic beverages. Swimming is not advised due to unpredictable river currents.
Accessibility
The hot spring is easily accessible. Visitors can drive into Big Bend National Park and park at the trailhead. The walk to the hot springs is only a 0.5-mile round trip from the trailhead, making it easily accessible for most fitness levels. The site is pet-friendly, although dogs should be kept on a leash.
What Makes It Unique
Langford Hot Springs offers an exclusive experience as it’s located right at the U.S.-Mexico border, beside the Rio Grande River. The hot spring’s historical significance, stemming from the Langford Bathhouse era, adds a touch of nostalgia. Moreover, the site is a day-use-only area, which ensures it remains less crowded.
How to Reach Langford Hot Springs?
The hot spring is approximately 85 miles from Marathon, Texas, roughly a 1-hour and 45-minute drive. Once in Big Bend National Park, signs will guide you to the trailhead for the hot springs.
Pro Tips
- Check with Big Bend National Park for the most current conditions and information before your visit.
- Since it’s a day-use-only site, plan your visit accordingly to maximize your time.
- Pets are allowed, but keep your dog on a leash.
- Alcoholic beverages and glass containers are not allowed, so plan your supplies accordingly.
- Keep the area clean by picking up after yourself.
- Be cautious as purchasing items from vendors on the Mexican side of the Rio Grande is illegal.
Langford Hot Springs in Big Bend National Park offers an enriching experience for visitors. Its unique location and soothing mineral waters make it an ideal choice for those looking to unwind in nature while enjoying views across the border.
3. Barton Springs Pool Austin, TX
Google Maps Location | Website
Barton Springs Pool is a natural mineral water spring pool located within Zilker Park in Austin, Texas. This 3-acre pool maintains a consistent water temperature of 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, offering a refreshing escape in summer and a warm-up spot during winter. Depths range from zero to 18 feet, making it versatile for waders and divers alike.
Features & Facilities
The pool is complete with on-site amenities like bathrooms and changing areas. The surrounding area features tree-covered picnic spots, making it ideal for a day out. Additionally, there’s a diving board for thrill-seekers. Admission fees are charged, and both daily and season passes are available for purchase. An educational exhibit, Splash!, is adjacent to the pool bathhouse, offering patrons insights into the pool’s history and biology.
Accessibility
The Barton Springs Pool is open from Tuesday to Sunday between 8 AM and 10 PM. The pool is easily accessible and does not require reservations. For those who prefer quieter times, “Swim at Your Own Risk” hours are daily from 5 AM to 8 AM and do not require an entry pass.
What Makes It Unique
Barton Springs Pool is not just a swimming spot but a federally protected habitat for the endangered Barton Springs Salamander. The pool has historical significance and diverse patronage, from lawmakers to celebrities like Robert Redford, who learned to swim here as a child. Every Thursday, the pool closes from 9 AM to 7 PM for meticulous cleaning, ensuring both wildlife and human visitors can enjoy this natural wonder.
How to Reach There Barton Springs Pool
The pool is situated within Zilker Park, easily reachable by public and private transport. Parking is included with a season pass. Daily and season passes can be purchased online or at on-site kiosks.
Pro Tips
- Buy your entry passes in advance online via PARD.flowbirdhub.com or the Pard ATXswims app to avoid queues.
- The pool is most crowded during weekends, so plan your visit on weekdays if you prefer fewer people.
- Be mindful of prohibited items, including food, pets, and alcohol.
- The best time for a quieter swim is during the “Swim at Your Own Risk” hours between 5 AM and 8 AM.
- If you are interested in the pool’s history and biology, don’t miss the Splash! exhibit.
With its unique blend of natural beauty, convenient amenities, and historical significance, Barton Springs Pool offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination when you’re in Austin.
4. Capote Springs – West Presidio County, Texas
Capote Springs is a secluded hot springs complex located in West Presidio County, near the remote area of Candelaria in the Chihuahuan desert. With water temperatures consistently ranging between 98 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit, it offers an inviting, warm soak year-round. The springs are fed by Quaternary gravel and create an ecosystem that supports endangered plant species.
Features & Facilities
Though remotely situated, Capote Springs is renowned for its unique attractions, notably Capote Falls, Texas’ tallest waterfall with a height of 175 feet. The roar of the falls can be heard from up to a half-mile away. The area is privately owned, so advance permission from landowners is necessary. Camping options are available in the vicinity, but the nearest RV sites are about an hour away.
Accessibility
The springs are situated about an hour’s drive from Marfa, making it a somewhat remote but accessible location. It’s important to note that these are private springs; hence, permission from the landowners is required for access. As for lodging, your best bet is camping in the area or opting for an RV site roughly an hour away.
What Makes It Unique
What sets Capote Springs apart is its unique ecosystem that supports several endangered plant species, thanks to the mineral-rich water and rock bed. Moreover, the location offers the rare combination of a hot spring paired with the state’s tallest waterfall, Capote Falls. The roar of the falls adds an additional layer of natural symphony to your experience.
How to Reach Capote Springs?
Capote Springs is located in Presidio, TX, 79843, USA. The best way to get there is by car, as it’s situated about an hour away from Marfa. For exact directions, it’s advisable to consult with the landowners once you obtain permission to visit.
Pro Tips
- Always seek permission from landowners before planning your trip.
- The closest overnight options are camping sites, with the nearest RV spots about an hour away. Plan your stay accordingly.
- If you’re interested in the area’s history, make a stop at the Marfa and Presidio County Museum to enrich your visit.
- For a full experience, pair your hot spring visit with a hike to Capote Falls. Just remember to pack good hiking shoes.
Capote Springs is a West Texas marvel that offers a unique blend of natural wonders, from rejuvenating hot springs to awe-inspiring waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for those looking for something truly special and a bit on the wild side.
5. Krause Springs in Spicewood
Google Maps Location | Website
Krause Springs is a 115-acre historical property located in Spicewood, Texas, approximately 30 miles west of Austin. This well-preserved gem, founded in 1955 and privately owned by the Krause family for over half a century, offers 32 natural springs feeding into both a manmade and a natural pool. Listed on the National Registry of Historical Sites, it’s the perfect spot to cool off during Texas’ hot summers.
Features & Facilities
Visitors can choose between a manmade pool with a constant water temperature of around 70 degrees Fahrenheit or a natural geothermal lagoon that averages 80 degrees in the summer. Both pools are untreated, boasting some of the cleanest natural spring water in Texas. Other amenities include:
- Primitive tent camping and 24 RV sites with water and electricity.
- Butterfly Gardens featuring wind chimes and fountains for a serene experience.
- Restrooms are equipped with sinks, stalls, and showers, all using fresh spring water.
- Day-use and overnight accommodations.
Accessibility
The property is easily accessible by car and is around a 45-minute drive from Austin. Walking around the area is also convenient due to well-maintained paths. It’s worth noting that Krause Springs is not pet-friendly, and no lifeguards are on duty.
What Makes It Unique
What sets Krause Springs apart are its 32 naturally occurring springs and inclusion in the National Registry of Historical Sites. The property boasts untreated pools, ensuring that visitors experience pure, natural spring water. Butterfly Gardens add an additional touch of tranquility, setting it apart from other recreational areas.
How to Reach Krause Springs?
Krause Springs is situated at 424 Co Rd 404, Spicewood, TX 78669. From Austin, take US-290 W to TX-71 W, following signs for Spicewood to reach the destination within approximately 45 minutes.
Pro Tips
- Admission is cash-preferred, although credit cards are accepted.
- Day-use admission rates are $10 for adults and $6 for children aged 4-12.
- Camping rates are $15 for adults, $10 for children 4-12, and RV camping is also $15.
- Wear water shoes as the ground and rocks can get slippery.
- No glass containers, loud music, or pets are allowed.
- Bring your camera to capture the natural beauty but remember to keep the place clean by using the trash barrels.
Whether you’re interested in a refreshing swim, primitive camping, or simply a leisurely day amid nature, Krause Springs in Spicewood offers a unique and enriching experience for all.
6. Jacob’s Well
Google Maps Location | Website
Jacob’s Well is a fascinating natural wonder located within the 81.5-acre Jacob’s Well Natural Area in Wimberley, TX. This perennial artesian spring is sourced from the Trinity Aquifer and releases thousands of gallons of water daily. With a 12-foot diameter at the surface and a depth plunging to about 30 feet, the well is known for its other-worldly beauty. Although the visible part is mesmerizing, the real mystery lies deeper, with underwater caverns extending up to 4,341 feet.
Features & Facilities
- Water temperature remains a constant 68°F year-round, providing a refreshing respite from the Texas heat.
- The well is surrounded by rocky outcroppings ideal for adventurous leaps.
- Hiking trails weave through the protected Natural Area, accessible all year.
- No camping facilities.
- Reservations are required for swimming between May 1 and September 30.
- Swimming costs range from $5 to $9 depending on age.
Accessibility
Jacob’s Well is easily accessible by car, though parking is limited, so carpooling is recommended. From the parking lot, an easy 10-minute walk suitable for all ages and fitness levels leads you to the well.
What Makes It Unique
Jacob’s Well is one of the longest underwater caves in Texas and the U.S., drawing attention from professional divers and researchers. Additionally, its consistent year-round temperature and the natural beauty of the surrounding protected area make it a unique, must-visit location.
How to Reach Jacob’s Well?
Jacob’s Well Natural Area is located at 1699 Mt Sharp Rd, Wimberley, TX 78676. To reach the area, take the US-290 from Austin and follow Ranch Rd 12 S to Wimberley. Detailed directions can be found on the Hays County website.
Pro Tips
- Reservations for swimming are obligatory and available online.
- No lifeguards are present, swim at your own risk.
- Hiking is best early in the morning to avoid heat and crowds.
- No pets, smoking, or glass containers allowed.
- Remember to pack out what you pack in to keep the area pristine.
Jacob’s Well offers an unparalleled natural experience, whether you’re diving into its mesmerizing depths or hiking through the stunning natural area that surrounds it. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of this unique Hill Country destination.
7. Hamilton Pool Preserve – Dripping Springs – Natural Springs in Texas
Google Maps Location | Website
Hamilton Pool Preserve is a stunning natural wonder located about 30 miles west of Austin, Texas, in Dripping Springs. Established as a preserve in 1990, the area features a breathtaking 50-foot waterfall that spills over limestone outcroppings into a steep box canyon. The waterfall remains active year-round, although it can reduce to a trickle during dry periods. The preserve is home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare plant species and the endangered Golden-Cheeked Warbler.
Features & Facilities
The preserve spans 232 acres and offers the following amenities:
- Hiking trails: Explore the natural beauty of the preserve.
- Picnic tables: A place for visitors to relax and eat.
- Portable toilets: Basic sanitation facilities available.
- Educational Programs: Occasional guided hikes and informational programs (subject to COVID restrictions).
The park was primarily known for swimming, but that is currently not guaranteed due to various conditions, including falling rocks and bacterial levels in the water.
Accessibility
Accessibility to Hamilton Pool Preserve is by reservation only. Two time slots are available: a morning slot from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM and an afternoon slot from 2:00 PM to 5:30 AM. Reservations cost $12 per vehicle, with additional per-person fees payable in cash upon arrival ($8 for adults, $3 for seniors, free for children under 12). The preserve can be accessed via a quarter-mile hike on rough, steep terrain, making it unsuitable for people with mobility issues.
What Makes It Unique
Hamilton Pool Preserve is part of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, a broader effort to protect endangered species habitats while balancing economic development. Its geology is unique, characterized by limestone outcroppings that contribute to the scenic waterfall and pool. The preserve’s ecosystem ranges from semi-arid uplands to riparian canyon areas, making it a biodiversity hotspot.
How to Reach Jacob’s Well
The preserve is located at 24300 Hamilton Road, Dripping Springs, TX 78620. From Austin, you can reach the preserve by taking US-290 W and then Hamilton Pool Road. Signage will direct you to the preserve entrance.
Pro Tips
- Reservations are Mandatory: Always make your reservation before visiting.
- Cash Only: Additional entrance fees at the preserve are cash only.
- Arrive Prepared: No concessions are available, so bring water and snacks.
- Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking on rough terrain.
- Check Updates: Before leaving, call the Public Information Line at 512-264-2740 for the most current status, especially if weather conditions are unstable.
- Swimming is Not Guaranteed: Always check the website or call ahead to know the current swimming status.
- Limited Accessibility: The trail to the pool is rugged and may not be suitable for everyone.
- No Pets Allowed: Service animal information can be found on their FAQ page.
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